When pain or neurological symptoms persist after a work or auto accident, getting a clear picture of what’s happening inside your body is essential. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of your organs, soft tissues, bone, and virtually all other internal body structures. At Advantage Healthcare, we utilize MRI results to help accurately diagnose injuries like disc herniations, ligament tears, or other soft tissue damage, ensuring you receive the most appropriate treatment.
What Problems Does MRI Help Diagnose?
MRI is particularly useful for visualizing soft tissues and can help identify:
- Spinal disc herniations or bulges compressing nerves
- Ligament tears (e.g., ACL in the knee, rotator cuff in the shoulder)
- Tendon tears or inflammation
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Soft tissue injuries
- Certain types of fractures not visible on X-ray
- Changes within the brain (though often normal in mild TBI/concussion, it can rule out bleeding or more severe injury)
How Does MRI Work?
The Machine
You’ll lie down on a table that slides into the center of a large, tube-shaped magnet.
Staying Still
It’s very important to lie still during the scan to ensure clear images. The machine makes loud banging or clicking noises, so you’ll likely be given earplugs or headphones.
Contrast Dye (Sometimes)
In some cases, a contrast agent (gadolinium) may be injected into a vein to enhance the visibility of certain tissues.
Duration
Scans typically take 30-60 minutes, depending on the area being imaged and the number of sequences needed.
What Are the Benefits of MRI?
- Detailed Images: Provides excellent visualization of soft tissues often not seen well on X-ray.
- Accurate Diagnosis: Helps pinpoint the exact cause of pain or other symptoms.
- Guides Treatment: Crucial for determining the best course of action, including therapy, injections, or surgical planning.
- Non-Invasive: Does not use ionizing radiation like X-rays or CT scans.
Why Utilize MRI Results at Advantage Healthcare
- Expert Interpretation: While the scan is done at an imaging center, our physicians expertly interpret the results in the context of your clinical presentation and accident history.
- Treatment Planning: We use MRI findings to develop targeted and effective treatment plans.
- Coordination: We help coordinate scheduling and authorization for MRIs when medically necessary for your work comp or auto injury case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an MRI scan painful?
The scan itself is painless. Some people may feel discomfort from having to lie still for an extended period, or anxiety due to the enclosed space (claustrophobia). Let the facility know if you are claustrophobic – options like wider bore MRIs or sedation may be available. The noise can also be bothersome, but hearing protection is provided.
Is MRI safe? Are there radiation risks?
MRI is considered very safe and does not use ionizing radiation. The main risks relate to the strong magnetic field – patients with certain metal implants (like older pacemakers, cochlear implants, certain clips) may not be able to have an MRI. You will be carefully screened for metal beforehand. Contrast dye carries a small risk of allergic reaction or kidney issues in specific patients.
Why might I need contrast dye?
Contrast helps highlight inflammation, blood vessels, or certain types of tissue, providing more detailed information for specific diagnostic questions. Your doctor will determine if it’s needed.
How should I prepare for an MRI?
Usually, no special preparation is needed, but follow instructions from the imaging center. You’ll need to remove all metal objects (jewelry, watches, hairpins, removable dental work). Inform them of any implants or metal in your body.
Getting a Clearer Picture of Your Injury.
MRI scans provide vital diagnostic information. If your doctor recommends an MRI, we will help facilitate the process as part of your comprehensive care.